New scientific publication about Waldorf education January 2026

We are delighted to share the findings of a new independent report commissioned by Waldorf UK and led by Professor Bill Lucas and Dr Ellen Spencer (University of Winchester) that explores how Waldorf education cultivates the skills young people need to flourish in life. The research focusses on four core Waldorf practices — experiential learning, interdisciplinary learning, play and creative education — showing how these approaches help pupils develop deep engagement, resilience, wellbeing and lifelong capacities for learning.

Rather than positioning knowledge and skills in opposition, the report describes how they work together to support young people’s growth. It highlights that Waldorf schools nurture the whole child — intellectually, emotionally and socially — preparing them to face a changing world with confidence and creativity.

Key insights from the research include:

“Waldorf education aims to equip children with the knowledge, skills and capacities they will need to flourish in a complex and changing world.”

“Creative education is particularly important. In an AI world, the expression of human creativity and intelligence is essential – but it needs to be embedded, not treated as an ‘extra’.” — Professor Bill Lucas

The report adds to a growing body of evidence that the Waldorf approach — with its blend of academic learning, arts, movement, play and reflection — supports engaged, resilient and imaginative learners able to thrive beyond the classroom.

You can read the full report here - Waldorf Final Report Lucas-Spencer December.pdf